National Gallery of Australia

Wonderful. Open spaces , quiet and good for all, singles ,couples, groups and older children. Maybe leave the tiny tots home ( purely for your own sanity). There are many exhibitions that are only bordered by white ground lines which indicate staying out of that area. There were enough adults who were chastised by security, asking them to please move out of the area, tiny tots wouldn't be able to help themselves 😀 Great bathrooms, disability friendly. Easy access for all ability levels. A good space for those who may be sensory challenged as it was a relatively quiet space. Nice indoor cafe downstairs. Not a huge array of food,. however what was there was tasty and reasonably cost effective. All in all a lovely way to spend a morning or afternoon.

The National Gallery offers a fantastic experience with its well-thought-out space and carefully curated collection. The layout of the galleries is spacious, providing a comfortable viewing experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the artworks without feeling cramped. The collection itself is impressive, showcasing a diverse range of masterpieces from different periods and styles, making it a must-visit for art lovers. Additionally, the museum’s free entry policy is a huge plus, allowing everyone access to world-class art without the pressure of admission fees. Navigation throughout the gallery is straightforward, with clear signage and helpful staff to guide you if needed. The restrooms are clean and well-maintained, enhancing the overall experience. Whether you're an art enthusiast or a casual visitor, the National Gallery provides a pleasant and enriching visit.

NGA might just be my favourite museum in Canberra! Wonderful art and stuff in very spacious areas. Free entry in most areas other than limited-time paid exhibitions. This museum definitely caters to non-art appreciators as well with their large variety of work.

A superb experience at the NGA today started on entry. We were warmly greeted and given a brief explanation of what was going on and where, with little notes written on the map for particular points of interest. The galleries are curated to perfection, providing you a coherent, logical and meaningful experience throughout.

It has been my dream to visit the National Gallery of Australia, but what let down it was. I expected grandeur and feast for the eyes, instead got a tired, weary, dated building that seems to be just there. Although the masters' works were shown, most of them just hung on the wall, didn't touch or move me at all. I found the curation wanting and dated. There were a few highlights such as the Sydney Nolan's Ned Kelly story, Linda Lee's feature, the Australian artists gallery, Archie Moore's family tree that won the top gong at the Venice Biennial, the spears in gallery 15. Sadly, the First Nation's gallery fell short. I was under the impression that this museum house the best of their works but there wasn't that much. Then parking was a $20 and lunch for a crappy avocado and tomato toast with 6 black beans and a dot of relish + a slice of roasted pumpkin came to $25. Utter rip off! Well I know now.

Like the revamp. The walls are a little less crowded and the exhibits are organised more thematically rather than nationalistic or chronological. Nice to see the interior restaurant although the offerings are much restricted than before. Promotion of women artists much welcomed.

Had a great night at the candlelight symphony in Canberra listening to an hour of movie themes from Hanz Zimmer. Wonderful quartet who were very professional and some light commentary throughout aswell 👍 Unfortunately the only negative was the $15 candlelight photo option which was a complete waste of money! Don’t bother unless you want a tiny out of focus Polaroid photo for your money..🤣🤦‍♂️

The National Gallery of Australia in Canberra hosts several limited exhibitions each year, including major international shows. Its main collection is regularly rotated, offering fresh experiences. Visitors can enjoy a coffee shop and a cafe while exploring Australia’s premier art institution. The building is worth experiencing itself. If you are going to an exhibition and it’s paid, buy tickets online prior to your visit.

Personally I don't know how you can give less than 5 stars for any countries National Gallery, let alone Australia, especially when there's no admission fee. Art is personal. I spent less than an hour here. What I saw here impressed me, possibly because my local guide James knew what we would like. We saw the giant Pollock Blue polls(impressive), Yayoi Kusama polka dot room(cool!) and the James Turrell Sky Space (neat). What's stopping you?

The price is right but beware, no photography! Just like Australia itself, the museum is enormous and sprawling. You can sign up for a free walking tour with a docent if you're not sure where to start, but be forceful with him/her if asked what you would like to see. I really wanted a sort of "tasting" but the guide ended up spending 40 minutes in Aboriginal art, 10 minutes in expressionism, and then was told to "explore" myself. Had a I chance to do it all over again, I would have asked to see just a couple examples from 3-4 different "parts" of the museum. I'm a sucker for portraiture and there is a "Miss Nellie Patterson" that reminds me of the Gainsborough Blue Boy and Pinkie. All the wanting-adulthood aspirations of children...although Miss Nellie does look a bit unhappy to be painted :-) If you are an art person, this is a reason to visit Canberra. If you are an art person, and are taking a break from the far more "active" things you will do in Australia, give yourself at least half a day here; full day would be better.

I was extremely lucky to see the Monet exhibit, one of the highlights on my travels here, and it was the only part that was really crowded. The rest of the gallery was quiet and was so nice to walk around. Staff was super helpful and friendly. Definitely my favourite place in Canberra.

Plenty of free parking underneath the building, but can be difficult to get a space during the day. Gallery is free to enter and view a large number of works in the permanent collection, and a small fee to see the temporary exhibitions. Some exquisite pieces, and a good mix of Australian and international works are featured.

We came for Toulouse Lautrec, we stayed for so much more! The NGA is in Parkes, and while there's paid parking around the place, if you're clever you will find the freebie spots. Ambience ***** There's so much art here, they can't fit it all in. In fact, it has spilled to outside the building and getting in can take a while. We ventured around and into a large water feature art piece which made fun of echoes and water and had us amazed at the skill. Likewise a mesh ball was corded between bridge and building, as well as a sculpture garden. If you're an art nut (and you'd know if you are) you could easily spend a day here. There is art everywhere. The permanent exhibitions themselves are enough to keep little ones and big ones, long attention spans and short attention spans captivated for a good few hours and if you think I'm telling porky pies, you've missed something. Service ***** The girls at the front counter processed us through with our pre-bought ticketing (which is a must for the Toulouse Lautrec exhibition as they time release groups). They were quick and helpful and talked us through the catalogue, advising to claim the almost 300 page monster at the end of the exhibit along with our glass of bubbly vouchers. Security is on the ball in the gallery, I only heard a 'NO PHOTOGRAPHY IN HERE' once, but I heard the 'too close' piercing rings of sensors go off a few times as well as walkie talkies telling their holders to go check an area. The water gallery was GORGEOUS, and the security officer overseeing that area had some nice information for us about a few of the pieces there, which was really lovely - it's good to see a bit of mingling for some tidbits worth knowing in what would have otherwise been an ignorant 'ooh ahh' session for me. Food **** We had scones with jam and cream with our chandon brut. The NGA cafe serves light meals and drinks (I don't think hard liquor) all day until about 4.30-5pm. The scones were housemade and served hot with jam and whipped cream (grr). It seems whipped is the easy way to go these days, but after such a rich experience, some double thick or dollop would have topped it off better (no, don't excuse the pun). Additional The portrait gallery is in decent walking distance, the other landmarks a bit more of a hike. If you're in the area anytime soon, please, please, please, go see the Queen's diamond jubilee portrait. It's breathtaking, really, I (self proclaimed troglodyte of the art world) have no words for how beautiful that portrait is.

Another free tourist spot in Canberra! Not the biggest art gallery I've been to, but a nice selection. The most unique part of their collection (vs other national art galleries) would be their aboriginal artwork. Definitely worth checking out!

I drove down from Sydney and was lucky enough to experience the James Turrell exhibition. I was able to stop, look and reflect on the connections between light and colour, and how they affect perception. He had a range of artworks from 2D drawings explaining the concept of perception which turned objects into 3D images. He also had light projections producing holograms, 3D objects from a wall and reflections like I've never seen before. The last room was amazing where I became part of the artwork. I was put in a large room with lights that changed colour and as a result changed the size of the room. If you love art, this is something to see! Unfortunately no photos were allowed but you can see for yourself!

I spent a marvellous, peaceful Sunday morning here. Although there were a lot of visitors, its spacious galleries mean you never feel over-crowded. Entry is free, unless you want to see a special exhibition. I saw their Tom Roberts Exhibition and it was fantastic. Only $20 entry fee to see several famous, wonderful works - great value. The staff are mindful of the contemplative atmosphere here too so even the guides speak in appropriately low tones. You will see pieces by Australia's most noteworthy artists - Nolan, Boyd, Streeton and Roberts (of course) to name just a few.

Skip the block buster shows, wander the quiet smaller galleries and find some interesting art. Avoid the bookshop on the way out.

NGA is a spectacular visual feast. Often featuring visiting exhibitions - the most recent was Turner from the Tate, the gallery also boast awesome permanent exhibitions. Treat yourself. If you come to Canberra, do not miss this!

Loved it, highly recommended, Su, our tour guide was wonderfully informative and involved our children like a true professional